Norway to boost exports of its innovative furniture solutions
Page date: published 28 August 2025; updated 25 March 2026; 6 min read (as rendered).
The article describes an Innovation Norway export initiative for furniture makers, including a 2025 trade mission to Germany. It profiles Ekornes’s Stressless recliner, launched in 1971, and its broader seating range; the article says more than 80 million people recognize the brand. LK Hjelle has revived Ingmar Relling’s 1965 Siesta chair and says about 25% of its turnover comes from exports, with ambitions to grow in Germany. Other firms seeking overseas sales include Brunstad (Delta chairs), Formfin (including the Røst chair), and Kleppe Møbelfabrikk (tables). Ekornes Interior Solutions targets maritime, hotel and hospitality projects with contract furnishings.
Supply-chain examples include Sykkylven Stål’s patented recliner and seating mechanisms under the Dyfosit brand. The article describes manufacturers as emphasizing durable construction, repairability, renewable-energy-powered production and reduced material impacts. It cites Kleppe’s UV wood lacquer as a finish intended to improve durability and reduce potential VOC emissions. These company practices are reported as described by the article.
The page presents Norwegian furniture makers’ export strategy as a combination of product differentiation, origin labeling, design heritage and international brand building. Export shares, awareness figures, market plans and environmental claims are source-page statements, not independently verified.
Related link: Manufacturing and design.